Recycle reward machines

Considering using a recycle reward machine for your cup recycling scheme?

When trialled in Leeds, recycle machines were popular with the public and helped reduce contamination in recycling bins. Recycle reward machines for cups were tested in the city and while only 5% of discount vouchers (5,10 or 20p) were redeemed, the machines were well used and collected high quality cups. Replacing the financial reward with playful animations or charity donations was just as effective.

Benefits

• They are a good tool to engage the public.

• They crush up to 400 cups per machine, meaning they need emptying less frequently.

• Most effective in closed-loop, managed spaces with high footfall, where people both consume and dispose of food and drink packaging.

Negatives

• The machines are considerably more expensive than equivalent bins.

• Some indoor recycling bins were just as effective.